Raise options on the table for retiree holiday bonuses: Two scenarios emerging in the corridors

With the approach of the holidays, retirees have turned their eyes to the bonus announcements expected from the government. First introduced in 2018 and paid twice a year, holiday bonuses are being followed more closely in recent years due to the rising cost of living.

This payment, which was applied as 4 thousand TL last year, is causing intense debate both in the public eye and in political corridors regarding how much it will be in 2026.

Former Social Security Institution (SGK) Chief Inspector İsa Karakaş evaluated the possibilities and expectations regarding the retiree holiday bonus.

According to Karakaş, although no concrete figure has been determined yet, two different increase formulas for the bonus amount are emerging during the budget negotiation process.

“We are evaluating it in all its dimensions. I do not foresee a one-salary scenario. Those receiving the lowest amounts would still be at a much greater advantage in terms of percentage based on the premiums they have paid,” Karakaş said, clarifying the issue and stating that the possibility of a payment equal to one salary is unlikely.

Another subject of curiosity was whether there is any official work underway. Karakaş emphasized that despite the expectations, there is currently no official initiative or study submitted to the cabinet. “There is no such study at the moment. I can state this clearly,” he said.

While there are intense demands for the improvement of the retiree bonus, it is known that there are also discussions among members of parliament regarding a gradual raise formula.

Karakaş conveyed the second scenario emerging in the corridors as follows.

“There is a scenario like, let’s make a partial improvement for Ramadan. Let’s make another improvement for Eid al-Adha. There is no concrete figure. I can state that clearly.”